GOD AND GOLDFINCHES
Outside our bedroom window, we’ve positioned several bird feeders. Each day as Linda rests in bed, she derives great joy from watching hummingbirds and goldfinches flitter and fight for food in the containers. Their activity soothes her soul.
While refilling the feeders last week, I realized how selfish these birds are! They only come when they want something. Once we’re out of feed, they bid us “Adios.” Although they delight Linda’s heart, in a sense her feathered friends are only using her to meet their needs. It would be nice if they stuck around and at least said “thank you” in some birdie form, but Linda has no expectations from these ungrateful fowl. Just observing them—having them in her presence—brings her joy. She delights in them, even though they have nothing tangible to offer her.
Ever ponder how much delight we bring to God when we come to him? Even in our neediness. Even with ungrateful hearts. Even if we’re only using him to meet our needs. Of course, scripture is replete with commands to be thankful (1 Thessalonians 5:18). But let’s get real. How often do we come to God, pleading for help, and then skip off on our merry way, without uttering a word of thanks? But He still rejoices in just being with us and serving us. He delights in our presence (Psalms 149:4).
Just like Linda’s birds, God wants us to come to Him in our need. First Peter 5:7 tells us to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” When we do this, blessings flow like a torrent. Jesus promises, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3), and “blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness” (verse 6). Just as Linda’s birds look to their “higher power” to fill their needs, we come to God as spiritual beggars, desperate for His grace and mercy. Jesus calls this a “blessed” experience.
Linda smiles as she looks out her window at finches converging on a sack of thistle seeds. Likewise, when we open the Bible for encouragement, or pour out our hearts in prayer, our Papa’s face beams. I’m constantly refilling the bird feeders. (Those little dudes can really eat!) Not because they’re grateful; not because they have anything to offer us; but merely because we enjoy being with them.
UPDATE ON LINDA: She felt very weak last weekend, and ended up in the ER on Monday, where she received an IV of fluid. Since then, she’s felt better than she has in weeks, and is eating well and drinking her juices. Please pray for her to continue to gain strength.
Principle: We bring God delight when we come to Him
Ponder:
What circumstances in your life cause you to come to God in need?
When have you experienced the blessings of coming to God as a spiritual beggar?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Matthew 5:1-14.
Prayer: Abba Father, I need you. Every moment of every day. Thank you that you bid me to cast my cares upon you. Help me in my weakness.